Thematic Areas

Thinking about the Natural or Technological World

These are First Seminars with course codes starting FSNA and University Seminars starting USNA.

Courses that meet the objectives of this theme explore the identification, description, experimental investigation, and theoretical explanation of physical, biological, or chemical phenomena, as well as development and dissemination of technology.

Thinking about the Social World

These are First Seminars with course codes starting FSSO and University Seminars starting USSO.

Courses that meet the objectives of this theme introduce students to the methods and concepts critical to the understanding of human behavior and development, social organization, and historical change. These courses (like those for the Symbolic World) may also include the study of literature and of philosophical or religious ideas.

Thinking about the Symbolic World

These are First Seminars with course codes starting FSSY and University Seminars starting USSY.

Courses that meet the objectives of this theme explore the languages (including mathematics) used to describe, interpret, or construct the natural and social/cultural worlds. The study of these languages broadens the students’ understanding of human reasoning and communication.

Students can’t take two courses in the same thematic area – between the First Seminar and two University Seminars, they will take one course in each of the three categories.

To see all the courses currently available through the SAGES program, please consult the Course Directory.